When it comes to comfort food that warms the heart and excites the palate, Greek meatballs in tomato sauce stand out as a quintessential dish rich in flavor and history. The tender, aromatic meatballs, combined with a vibrant tomato sauce, create a dish that is both satisfying and versatile. Below, explore the detailed steps to create this delightful meal reminiscent of family gatherings and warm Mediterranean evenings.
Ingredients
For the Meatballs:
1 lb ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
1/2 cup breadcrumbs
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 egg
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
Olive oil for frying
For the Tomato Sauce:
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
StepbyStep Preparation
1. Prepare the Meatball Mixture:
In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground meat, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, egg, oregano, salt, and pepper. Use your hands to mix the ingredients until they are just combined; avoid overworking the meat to ensure the meatballs remain tender.
2. Shape the Meatballs:
Wet your hands slightly to prevent sticking and take a small portion of the mixture, rolling it into a ball about the size of a golf ball. Repeat this process until all the mixture is shaped into meatballs, placing them on a tray or plate as you go.
3. Fry the Meatballs:
In a large skillet, heat a few tablespoons of olive oil over mediumhigh heat. Once hot, carefully add the meatballs to the pan without overcrowding. Fry them for about 5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown. Remove the meatballs and set them on a paper towellined plate to absorb excess oil.
4. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
In the same skillet, add more olive oil if necessary and sauté the chopped onion until it’s translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer the Sauce:
Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld, which should take about 1015 minutes. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Combine Meatballs with Sauce:
Gently place the fried meatballs in the simmering tomato sauce, ensuring they’re wellcoated. Let them cook together for an additional 15 minutes, allowing the flavors to permeate the meatballs.
7. Serve:
Once the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce is thickened, remove the skillet from the heat. Serve the meatballs hot, garnished with fresh basil if desired. Pair with crusty bread, rice, or a side of pasta for a complete meal.
The aroma permeating through the kitchen as these meatballs cook is just the beginning of the experience. With every bite, the rich flavors offer a taste of Greek culture, tradition, and the warmth of home. Enjoy sharing this dish with loved ones, making it a centerpiece for unforgettable meals.